Re: Northeastern Hockey 2013-14 Season
I went into tonight's game cautiously optimistic about the season. I left much more excited that I thought I'd be, I was very impressed by what I saw. First time in a long time I have seen NU put together a true complete game: Offense, defense, forechecking, penalty killing, PP, and goaltending all were clicking tonight. The D did a good job staying in passing lanes, giving up the body at times to block shots and passes, and putting hits on Dalhousie as they entered the offensive zone. Dalhousie had a total of 19 shots but not many good looks other than one that hit iron and one that Derick snagged. The only real negative was Nathan getting into a scrap that ended with both he and the instigator getting game DQs. Shame too, the Ferriero/Szmatula/Ferriero line looked sharp.
The tenders looked good, Witt started and saw the most action. None of them were challenged too hard, though Mountain (played Period 2) did give up more than a couple juicy rebounds than I'd prefer..
Offensively, this looked like a brand new team. The team came out guns blazing, flying around the rink, crisp tape-to-tape passes, one-timers getting on net, great forecheck that caused several turnovers. Goal-scoring opportunities happened early and often. Mike Szmatula was tenacious, he was everywhere on the ice. Looks as good as advertised. Him, Stevens, and Hedges all had very good offensive games- Hedges' stick handling and Stevens' playmaking ability were on display. NU dominated the faceoff circle, which was a new treat to see: the team was 42 of 65 for the game, led by Hedges at 13 of 16 and Stevens at 9 of 12. Also came away impressed by Tanner Pond and Zak Stone.
I know it was just an exhibition game, but after tonight it is hard to not be excited for Friday. The team looked great, and the Doghouse actually had standing room filled and had to send people over to the Donghouse so they could sit. Stoked that the season is finally here
